Michelle Phoenix

What do you do in the business?

With over 25 years of experience in education, I lead the strategic design and development of our curriculum across all courses and apprenticeships. My role involves ensuring that every learning programme is engaging, relevant, and aligned with industry needs as well as the aspirations of our learners. I also oversee our quality assurance processes, ensuring that our delivery consistently meets and exceeds national standards. As part of this, I contribute significantly to Ofsted inspections and internal evaluations, helping to embed a culture of continuous improvement and excellence across the organisation.

What’s your background?

My journey in education began as an Early Years Apprentice, and it was during that time that I discovered my passion for teaching and supporting others to achieve their career goals. That experience helped me appreciate the importance of patience, empathy, and the power of learning to transform lives. Over the years, this passion has grown into a commitment to building strong and supportive learning environments that bring out the best in both learners and educators. Working within an Independent Training Provider has given me the opportunity to design and influence high-quality learning experiences that make a meaningful impact. I take great pride in championing learner success, ensuring that our programmes are not only educational but also inspiring, practical, and career-focused. My approach is always centred around people — understanding what motivates them, what challenges them, and how we can support their journey toward success. I’m deeply committed to ensuring that every learner’s experience inspires them to be their best, where they feel excited, motivated, and empowered to grow both personally and professionally. For me, education is not just about gaining qualifications; it’s about building confidence, fostering ambition, and opening doors to new opportunities.

What’s the best piece of careers advice you’ve received or given?

Don’t limit yourself to what you already know. Be curious, take chances, and explore new opportunities. You’ll never truly discover your strengths until you step outside your comfort zone and embrace new experiences.